Sergei Ivanov, a former Russian defense minister and once considered a potential successor to Vladimir Putin, has died at the age of 73. His death was notably first announced by an unusual source.

Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian defense ministers adopted a decision in 2024 to build a joint defense line to deter and slow down a potential Russian attack, with the line, featuring 'dragon's teeth,' becoming more substantial by 2026.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, despite wishing for a world without weapons, expressed his desire to leverage the expertise of the automotive industry more effectively for the defense sector, discussing his social democratic conscience and failed arms projects.

Ammar Borančić, an official of the European Alliance, has called for the resignation or dismissal of Montenegrin Defense Minister Dragan Krapović following his alleged appearance in criminal 'Sky' correspondence.

South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi are scheduled to hold their second face-to-face meeting within a month to discuss defense cooperation.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's recent remarks could lead to serious international repercussions. Crosetto emphasized the potential for Rutte's comments to destabilize diplomatic relations.

Montenegrin Defense Minister Dragan Krapović vehemently rejected accusations from MP Nikola Zirojević regarding alleged ties to organized criminal groups and the disclosure of sensitive information.

A session in the Montenegrin Parliament saw a heated exchange, with Defense Minister Dragan Krapović reportedly calling an SD MP an 'uneducated donkey' and being accused of physically assaulting another minister.

Former Japanese foreign and defense minister Taro Kono stated that Japan and South Korea should build a stronger security alliance to ensure regional stability, given the less certain US commitment to East Asia.

High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, has appointed former Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren as Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS), and a French envoy to NATO.

Interim Defense Minister Radu Miruță stated that the USR party would only support a PSD-led government if the Social Democrats agree to a governmental rotation with a cabinet formed by PNL-USR-UDMR.

A liveblog on the Ukraine war reports that a Moscow refinery is expected to be out of commission until year-end, a fuel crisis is affecting Siberia, and President Zelenskyy will not attend a reconstruction conference in Poland. German Defense Minister Pistorius also stated he would conscript soldiers for Lithuania if necessary.

Belgian liberal-conservative Defense Minister Theo Francken sparked controversy with his suggested solution to a heatwave: cold beer and a private pool.

A new IT and Cybersecurity Directorate for the Ministry of National Defense was inaugurated at the Pentagon in Greece, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Defense Minister Nikos Dendias in attendance.

Three years after Yevgeny Prigozhin's march on Moscow, Wagner veterans remain divided on the meaning of the mutiny, which stemmed from a feud between Prigozhin and then-defense minister Sergei Shoigu.

Interim Defense Minister Radu Miruță of USR warned that a PSD government would depend on weekly negotiations with AUR, suggesting a PNL-USR-UDMR minority executive as a solution to the governmental crisis.

Lithuania plans to revise its arms procurement conditions related to industrial cooperation, as Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas noted that one specific condition has led suppliers to increase the prices of acquired weaponry.

Former Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon has compared the ideology of Jewish settlers to Nazism and accused authorities of failing to investigate responsible Israelis.

The Greek Prime Minister and Defense Minister are set to inaugurate a new, state-of-the-art cyber defense center in Athens. The facility, funded by a donation from shipowner Athanasios Laskaridis, will serve as the operational hub for Greece's digital defense system.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has tempered expectations for a swift Bundeswehr mandate regarding a potential military mission in the Strait of Hormuz, indicating no quick decisions are likely.

Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed support for crucial infrastructure proposals in Meghalaya, including the proposed Ratacherra-Ranikor road along the India-Bangladesh border, during Yoga Day discussions.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto will be a guest on Maria Latella's 'Caffè della domenica' on Radio 24, discussing topics including his recent meeting with his American counterpart.

Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov announced that US KC-135 aircraft will remain at Sofia Airport until June 30, responding to a parliamentary inquiry.

The Danish Minister of Defense has stated that incidents occurring in Denmark over recent years have involved drones.

Georgian Dream Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani participated in the 35th Ramstein format meeting at NATO headquarters in Brussels, which gathered defense ministers and senior officials from NATO member and partner countries.

Poland has reportedly withheld promised MiG-29 fighter jets from Ukraine, with Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk stating that Kyiv failed to fulfill an agreement regarding drone technology. Former GROM commander General Roman Polko commented on the situation, emphasizing that 'business is business.'

French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin stated that France is prepared to assume greater responsibility within NATO and strengthen its military capabilities, ahead of an alliance meeting.

Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias participated in the NATO Defense Ministers' Summit, where discussions focused on defense readiness, burden-sharing, and the European defense industry.

At a meeting of NATO defense ministers, Hegseth called for a 'reset' of the 32-member organization to transform it into 'NATO 3.0,' a stronger military alliance capable of deterring any threat.

Finland's parliament has voted to allow the country to host and transport NATO nuclear weapons in crisis situations, as NATO member states prepare to make a public statement regarding their nuclear weapons policy, with Finland's Defense Minister participating in the nuclear deterrence group meeting.

Ukraine's defense minister predicts the formation of a market of companies designed to attract thousands of foreign nationals to serve in the country's Armed Forces.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry states it knows how to respond if Russia launches a new large-scale mobilization campaign, asserting they will reach their target of wiping out 50,000 Russians a month faster.

Somaliland's Defense Minister has stated that there have been 'no discussions' about opening an Israeli military base in their country. This statement refutes claims of an IDF presence in Somaliland.

Tomas Godliauskas, who previously served as Deputy Minister of National Defense, has taken on the leadership role of the 'Total Defense' association in Lithuania.

Slovakia has opened its first embassy in Tanzania following controversial elections, with the opposition raising concerns about potential arms industry interests, while Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák cites new business opportunities.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced that American forces will not be withdrawn from US bases in Italy, following discussions with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon.

The Bulgarian Minister of Defense has granted permission for the guard orchestra to participate in a procession dedicated to the family, following a request for their involvement.

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has reportedly threatened to resign following a high-tension meeting over a proposed 5 billion euro cut to the defense budget. The Lega party also sought to cancel the "Safe" program, though the Treasury Minister ultimately promised to increase the budget.

Construction of a hospital in Prešov, Slovakia, has resumed after a five-week halt due to concrete issues, with the court having addressed the matter. Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák and Prime Minister Robert Fico have pledged to complete the project by August 2027.

UK Prime Minister Starmer is facing renewed pressure regarding Britain's security after the new Defense Minister was reportedly dubbed the 'steely ambassador of death' in London. This controversy highlights ongoing debates about the government's defense strategy.

India has successfully demonstrated ballistic missile defense and anti-ship missile capabilities, with the Defense Minister congratulating DRDO on the achievement.

A former British general warns that insufficient defense investment is deterring investors and companies, highlighting the issue with the defense minister's resignation over spending disputes.

Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus announced the establishment of a new Artificial Intelligence center, which he believes will benefit both Danish and European security.

Romania's interim defense minister has requested that Ukraine self-detonate any drones approaching Romanian waters to prevent potential incidents.

Bulgaria reportedly received an extension of the derogation for Lukoil in exchange for allowing the deployment of US military tanker aircraft at Sofia Airport, according to former Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov.

Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen has reassured the public that Finns can be 'quite calm' regarding Russia's armament and infrastructure building near the Finnish border, stating that Finland is well aware of the situation.

Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias highlighted significant changes coming to the country's Armed Forces through 'Agenda 2030', emphasizing the role of technology and innovation.

Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty stated that Canada will continue its support for Ukraine, responding to a Russian Foreign Ministry statement condemning recent drone manufacturing agreements.

Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas visited the 'Luxuav' drone factory, founded by Ukrainians living in Luxembourg, and extended an invitation for the manufacturers to conduct testing in Lithuania.

The French Defense Minister announced that France will continue working on the development of a new generation fighter aircraft until 2040, following Germany's withdrawal from the joint program.

The Likud Court has dismissed petitions seeking to expel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant from the party, ruling that there was no legal basis to terminate his membership despite harsh criticisms against him.

Mariusz Błaszczak, former Polish Minister of National Defense, was questioned in the Sejm regarding the currency of Korean loans for armaments, contradicting his previous statements that they were not in euros.

Czech politician and former minister Černochová has sharply criticized the current Minister of Defense, Zůna, stating he is the weakest and suggesting Andrej Babiš would replace him.

Former Hungarian Chief of Staff Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi criticized Defense Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky for requesting a lavender-soaked towel at an EU summit and for planning to travel with an 11-person delegation instead of the standard 6 for a meeting in Cyprus.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized the need to overhaul the military, including expanding the use of artificial intelligence, to adapt to future warfare and address personnel shortages.

Israel's Defense Minister Katz warned of an attack on Dahiyeh in response to any aggression on Israel's North, following an Iranian missile attack. Reports also indicate a proposal to attack 20-30 buildings in Dahiyeh for every Iranian missile.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that Israel rejects Iran's conditions and will persist in its operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Turkish F-16 fighter jets reportedly interfered with military aircraft carrying EU defense ministers to an informal meeting in Cyprus, leading to a serious diplomatic and military incident and a strong reaction from Nicosia.

Finland's Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen, 41, has declared his intention to win the summer fishing competition against Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.

Former Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak stated his opposition to Ukraine joining the European Union with 'Banderism,' called for the revocation of Zelenskyy's Order of the White Eagle, and criticized EU loans for arms.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has attacked President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftci over their comments regarding Jerusalem, further escalating tensions between the two nations.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz posted a message in Farsi, warning Iran that any attack on Israel would be Tehran's 'biggest mistake' and that 'nothing will stop us.'

Defense ministers from Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland met in Budapest to revive the Visegrád Group's defense alliance, discussing cooperation and security.

Defense Minister Kihara Minoru revealed that a USB memory stick used by the Ground Self-Defense Force last year contained malware, but reported that there was no impact on the system.

Defense ministers from South Korea and Japan are scheduled to hold talks in Seoul over the weekend, aiming to enhance defense cooperation amid improving bilateral relations.

Defense ministers of the Visegrád Group countries discussed cooperation points, signaling a revival of V4 military cooperation with new plans, after previous Orbán governments had stalled the East-Central European focused foreign policy.

German soldiers are conducting training exercises in Pabradė, Lithuania, as part of 'Freedom Shield' drills, with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stating they will be ready for any attack.

Poland is reportedly considering a proposal to transfer its MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine in exchange for Ukrainian drones. A deputy defense minister discussed the details of these ongoing negotiations.

Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon have resulted in two deaths, despite ongoing talks in Washington, with the Israeli defense minister stating troops will not withdraw from the region.

The president of Lebanon spoke about a plan to “consolidate” the ceasefire following Israel’s withdrawal The post Israel stands firm despite U.S.

Taiwanese forces are conducting five-day military exercises simulating a sudden invasion scenario, where China's drills around the island escalate into a real attack. The defense minister stated the need to verify immediate response capabilities.

Denmark's defense minister announced that military recruits will be deployed to Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory, to participate in missions alongside professional soldiers.

South Korea's main opposition People Power Party is increasing pressure on Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back, calling for his dismissal as two public petitions opposing his reform drive gain traction in the National Assembly.

The Chairman of the Bugojno Council reportedly threatened the mayor, stating he would 'break him' if he came to work, prompting Defense Minister Helez to defend the mayor. Helez called for the BiH Prosecutor's Office to intervene, asserting that the council chairman believes he is above the law.

A former defense minister has removed their name from a controversial report concerning Afghanistan. The decision by the Venstre politician has drawn attention to the disputed findings of the investigation.

The Omsk and Novosibirsk regions in Siberia are rationing gasoline and diesel, while Germany's Defense Minister Pistorius considers conscripting soldiers for Lithuania, and tourism on Crimea has halted.

Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus is on his first visit to Greenland in his new role, where he is working on a flight agreement, with surveillance costs in the region expected to be higher than initially planned.

Ukraine is considering a military reform aimed at providing long-serving soldiers a break from the front lines, despite critics calling for their immediate discharge, as the defense minister argues the country relies on them.

South Korea's defense minister is facing increasing criticism that his military reform plans are politically motivated rather than focused on structural improvements. A public petition has been launched through the National Assembly's system.

The Danish Defense is close to finalizing an agreement for new surveillance aircraft in the Arctic, with Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus (S) visiting Air Greenland ahead of a potential leasing deal.

Poland has reportedly halted the transfer of promised MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, with Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk stating that Kyiv failed to fulfill a drone technology agreement.

Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen is reportedly positioning himself for a potential bid for the leadership of the Kokoomus party, though his status as a clear successor is uncertain.

Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder has sent an urgent letter to Defense Minister Pistorius, warning against potential cutbacks to Germany's state commands, which he believes would undermine national defense. The Defense Ministry, however, holds a different view and expressed surprise at Söder's intervention.

US Defense Secretary Peter Hegseth announced that the United States will review its military presence in Europe and its contributions to NATO's common budget, criticizing European nations at a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels.

Poland's Deputy Defense Minister Pawel Zalewski announced plans to spend billions of zlotys on building the country's first permanent military base for US armed forces, with construction potentially starting by year-end.

Italian government officials, including the Defense Minister, are discussing positions on defense spending and adherence to NATO commitments. The Defense Minister stated that NATO commitments must be respected or the country should withdraw.

Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka has been officially appointed as Poland's Deputy Minister of National Defense, where she will oversee arms procurement for the Polish army. She previously served as the government's plenipotentiary for the EU's SAFE program.

Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić, speaking in Brussels, supported the American stance that Europe needs to increase its investment in defense.

Montenegrin Defense Minister Dragan Krapović stated that the country has achieved significant results in implementation, emphasizing the necessity of strong unity within the Alliance amidst current security challenges.

Ukraine's Minister of Defense announced plans to systematically use drones to turn Crimea into an island.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed that Israel and Somaliland have been cooperating 'under the radar' for years, during a meeting with the leader of the separatist region.

Moldovan Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatîi clarified that an incident at the 'Moldova' Motorized Infantry Brigade Training Center in Bălți, where a conscript was accidentally shot by another soldier, was due to negligence.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced significant investments in the Bundeswehr's anti-drone defense capabilities during a visit to troops in Lower Saxony.

Serbian Defense Minister Bratislav Gašić stated that Serbia has raised its level of alignment with the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy, reaching its highest point since 2014.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has confirmed that there will be no US withdrawal from military bases in Italy. He also discussed Italy's growing military leadership in Europe, attributing it to Prime Minister Meloni, and emphasized the need for more efforts towards NATO 3.0 during discussions with Hegseth.

Bulgarian Defense Minister Todor Tagarev stated that Bulgaria has already suffered damages due to the announced aid for Ukraine. He also pointed to the rhetoric of the previous president.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Fedorov provided clarification on how deferrals will be calculated for military personnel after their contracts expire. He detailed the process for determining deferment eligibility.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz stated that Israel will continue to defend its outposts in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, as polls show worrying signs for Prime Minister Netanyahu ahead of autumn elections.

Germany's defense minister, Boris Pistorius, has requested more time to evaluate options for a new military jet project, following the collapse of the nine-year Franco-German FCAS endeavor.

South Korea's ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol and his former defense minister were sentenced to 30 years in prison for allegedly ordering drone flights over Pyongyang to heighten tensions and justify declaring martial law.

Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles presided over the closing ceremony of the latest course at the European Leadership Academy. She emphasized the importance of fostering young leaders in Europe who uphold democratic values, peace, dialogue, and multilateralism.

Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen has sought to reassure the public, stating that Finns do not need to be concerned about reports of a Russian military buildup at the Finnish border.

Europe faces growing political instability, marked by the UK's loss of its Defense Minister, the abandonment of a joint fighter jet project by Germany and France, and renewed tensions between "frugal" and "spending" nations within the EU.

Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov hinted that the new F-16 fighter jets acquired by the Air Force are constantly breaking down, stating that he could not disclose how many of the eight aircraft are operational.

Poland is seeking compensation from the European Union for the weaponry it has supplied to Ukraine, as stated by Polish Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk.

Former Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak thanked Karol Nawrocki for an invitation to a ceremony for F-35 aircraft, prompting Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk to publicly call Błaszczak a 'liar'.

Norway's Defense Minister, Bjørn Arild Gram, stated that the 15 remaining detainees at the US prison camp in Guantánamo Bay should have been executed, calling their continued detention an absurdity.

Romanian National Defense Minister Radu Miruță stated that NATO allies conveyed a clear message of solidarity with Romania, recognizing it as a 'serious, responsible, and active partner' within NATO and regarding Black Sea region security.

Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias highlighted the critical role of defense innovation as a cornerstone of 'Agenda 2030' during an event marking two years of the Hellenic Centre for Defense Innovation (ELKAK).

Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, warned of increasing Russian disinformation regarding armament purchases from SAFE loans, using slogans like 'SAFE disarms Poland'.

Despite Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's threat of striking Beirut's Dahiyeh district if Hezbollah attacks northern Israel, security officials have reportedly distanced themselves from his statement.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a 250 MW solar power project to be developed on defense land in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. This marks a significant step in utilizing defense land for renewable energy initiatives.

Polish prosecutors have pressed charges against former Defense Minister Antoni Macierewicz for insulting state officials. Macierewicz has reportedly denied the allegations.

Cyprus's government reported that Turkish forces interfered with flights carrying European defense ministers to an EU meeting in Cyprus on Monday, stating it would file an official complaint.

Poland's Defense Minister has called for dialogue between Nawrocki and Zelensky to prevent emotions from destroying solidarity. This comes as the head of the Ministry of National Defense discusses the 'number one task for the president'.

Israel's defense minister stated the country would continue its attacks in Lebanon, despite a warning from Iran. This declaration reaffirms Israel's intent to proceed with military actions in the region.

Planes carrying the Greek, French, and Dutch defense ministers en route to a meeting in Cyprus were reportedly 'harassed' by North Cyprus, according to local sources.

Dan Neculăescu, Romania's ambassador to NATO and a career diplomat, is reportedly the preferred candidate for the Minister of Defense position, proposed by Prime Minister-designate Eugen Tomac.

Former Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak stated that Ukraine cannot join the European Union with 'Banderism' and demanded the revocation of the Order of the White Eagle from Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Former defense minister Gallant stated that an option exists to physically remove enriched uranium from Iran, acknowledging it would be dangerous but 'worth paying the price to avoid an existential risk.'

Katz Says US Hasn't Asked Israel To Withdraw From Lebanon - Wouldn't Do It Anyway Authored by Dave DeCamp via AntiWar.com, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that…

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius spoke about his social democratic conscience, failed armaments projects, and the SPD's leadership question, emphasizing Germany's military capabilities.

Ammar Borančić, an official from the European Alliance, stated that Defense Minister Dragan Krapović is a "serious burden to the Europeanization of Montenegro" and accused him of threatening and targeting members of parliament.

Austrian Defense Minister Tanner visited Leonardo, expressing hopes that the jets will become a success story for the military after a challenging start, as the ministry seeks positive outcomes following recent setbacks.

Former Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen has warned against downplaying the significance of a drone incident over Denmark.

Kaja Kallas is consolidating her power base, while the former Dutch Defense Minister, Ollongren, has been appointed as the Secretary-General of the EU External Action Service.

Canada's Defense Minister, Bill McGuinty, stated in an NHK interview that Canada aims to strengthen cooperation with Japan as part of its diversification efforts, while maintaining its relationship with the United States.

Canada's defense minister has reportedly discussed the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) fighter jet project with his Japanese counterpart, indicating potential Canadian interest as the program attracts new partners.

A Portuguese association of military officers has issued a second communiqué in less than a month, accusing Defense Minister Nuno Melo of "anomalous silence" regarding their salary negotiations, contrasting his inaction with ongoing talks in the Ministry of Internal Administration.

Hungary's Defense Minister stated that a transgender individual once applied to join the military but realized that 'this kind of culture' was incompatible with the armed forces and left voluntarily, implying a lack of self-awareness.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the abandoned F126 frigate construction project has already incurred costs of €2.3 billion, warning that continuing it would lead to disproportionately high expenses and delays.

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken sparked political and media controversy after making ironic comments about the ongoing heatwave, suggesting people enjoy the good weather by the pool with a cold beer and barbecue.

Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias highlighted the critical national goal of creating a trained reserve force of up to 150,000 personnel during the inauguration of the 1st Reserve Retraining Center in Avlona.

Taiwan's defense minister stated that the warning time for a potential Chinese attack is shortening, emphasizing the need for the island's military to be able to respond immediately to a war.

Canada to Send Warships to Indo-Pacific, Defense Minister Says Bloomberg

German brigade soldiers participated in the "Freedom Shield" exercises in Pabradė, Lithuania, alongside allies, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius observing the combat shooting and expressing satisfaction with the conditions provided.

Estonia's first medium-range IRIS-T SLM air defense system was delivered to Ämari Air Base on Monday, significantly enhancing the country's air defense capabilities, according to Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh visited the site of the Lucknow fire tragedy and received a briefing from Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak. Singh stated that 'responsibility will be fixed' for the incident.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni opts not to attend July 4th events herself, sending deputies instead, while Defense Minister Guido Crosetto reportedly contacts Mike Hegseth amidst concerns over potential tariffs and military base disengagement.

Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus is traveling to Greenland, though the specific agenda or purpose of his visit was not immediately detailed.

German Defense Minister Pistorius is visiting Pabradė, Lithuania, where the German brigade demonstrated its defense capabilities for the country.

The US Senate Armed Services Committee has proposed restricting travel expenses for the Defense Minister (Pete Hegseth, as named in the article, likely an error for a different official) until requested investigations into civilian casualties and video footage of military strikes related to an attack on a school in Iran are provided to Congress.

Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler stated that Türkiye views the upcoming NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara as a critical milestone that will help shape the alliance’s strategic direction.

Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus has confirmed that there was drone activity over Denmark last year. The statement comes as the defense concludes its investigation into the incidents.

A former South Korean defense minister has been sentenced to three years in prison for leaking military secrets related to a martial law bid.

Israel's defense minister stated that "no one can tell us what to do" amid criticism from the United States, emphasizing that Israel never asked the US to fight alongside it.

Italian Defense Minister Crosetto emphasizes the need to fulfill NATO commitments, suggesting that Italy must pay its share or risk being excluded, with discussions also including the possibility of increasing US soldiers at Sigonella.

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated there is no alternative to increasing NATO spending, warning that failure to do so would necessitate leaving the alliance, a position he believes Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti understands. Giorgetti responded that there is no controversy and the government is managing the situation.

Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias engaged in a series of critical bilateral meetings with top counterparts during the NATO Defense Ministers' summit in Brussels, focusing on new balances within the alliance.

Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo stated that Portugal is considering increasing its participation in naval operations in the Middle East, specifically mentioning demining operations in the Strait of Hormuz, within its capabilities.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has accused Western countries and the United Nations of being responsible for the collapse of agreements concerning Ukraine. He stated that their actions led to the failure of these diplomatic efforts.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that without the 'Safe' fund, some investments would need to be postponed, while the Chief of Staff of Defense, Luciano Portolano, noted that missions are being remodulated due to underfunding, impacting efficiency.

Michal Kaščák, organizer of the Pohoda festival, claims that the Slovak Minister of Defense wants to dictate what can be said at the festival. The festival's future at the Trenčín airport, owned by the Ministry of Defense, is uncertain due to a new contract proposal with restrictive clauses.

Moldova's Defense Minister, Anatolie Nosatîi, stated that a conscript soldier's gunshot wound during training in Bălți was caused by a violation of weapon handling rules.

Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić announced that Croatia is not only acquiring but also producing high-quality military equipment, which is being successfully placed on the international market.

Cypriot MEP Geadis Geadi addressed the European Parliament to criticize Turkish harassment of aircraft carrying European defense ministers who were recently traveling to Cyprus.

Dutch Defense Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius stated that the Netherlands will continue its regular military deployments to the Indo-Pacific, undeterred by a recent encounter with Chinese naval forces.

Statements from Bulgaria's Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov and Prime Minister Rumen Radev regarding the country's military aid to Ukraine have been contradictory and lacked specific details.

During a working visit to Germany, Montenegrin Defense Minister Dragan Krapović met with German Bundestag member Peter Beyer in Berlin to discuss current security and political topics relevant to Montenegro, reaffirming the country's commitment to NATO obligations and EU membership.

An analysis suggests that the resignation of the British defense minister serves as a warning to Europe regarding defense spending, amidst increasing threats of Russian aggression and unfulfilled promises from the NATO summit.

The Philippines has condemned China's imposition of sanctions on its defense minister, labeling the move as an unfriendly act. This condemnation highlights escalating tensions between the two nations.

The German Army aims to rapidly deploy more drones, with Defense Minister Pistorius stating Germany can learn from Ukraine, amidst reports of reduced US combat aircraft for NATO in Europe.

During the ceremony for the F-35 fighter jets entering service in Poland, President Karol Nawrocki facilitated a handshake between Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and former MON head Mariusz Błaszczak.

Jaroslav Naď, leader of the Democrats party, rules out mergers but not pre-election coalitions, stating his party has offers from two different groups and commenting on a conflict with Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák.

The Congress party has urged Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to reconsider the Great Nicobar airport project, advocating for the expansion of INS Baaz instead. They argue that the current project puts pristine forests at risk.

The Hemus 2026 exhibition in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, highlighted the country's defense industry, including plans for an F-16 maintenance center. Defense Minister Stoyanov urged Bulgarian industry to secure a real share of EU defense funding, warning against 'institutional lethargy'.

The Philippines' Defense Minister, along with his wife and children, has been banned from entering China, including Hong Kong, and Chinese entities are prohibited from transactions with him.

Turkey has criticized a defense agreement between France and Cyprus, calling it provocative and a threat to stability, while also commenting on a recent incident involving the harassment of Defense Minister Nikos Dendias' aircraft.

Bulgaria's Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov announced that the country is stopping the provision of weapons and ammunition from its army warehouses, clarifying that it was a provision, not a sale.

Germany and Poland are in dispute over European funds for weapons supplied to Kyiv, with Poland's Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk stating that Warsaw expects full compensation of approximately 450 million euros for arms sent to Ukraine.

The defense ministers of Serbia and Azerbaijan met to discuss bilateral cooperation in the defense sector. Serbian Minister Bratislav Gašić emphasized that military neutrality protects Serbia.

Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus (S) gave his first interview, stating his focus on retaining personnel in the armed forces and announcing that a report on mysterious drones is imminent.

Bulgaria's newly appointed Defense Minister, Dimitar Stoyanov, announced that the country will no longer provide weapons to Ukraine and urged Moscow and Kyiv to engage in negotiations.

A liveblog covers various German political topics including the Stuttgart 21 project, Defense Minister Pistorius's comments on fighter jet cancellations, and proposals for mandatory company pensions.

Bulgaria's Minister of Defense, Dimitar Stoyanov, announced the discovery of contracts within the ministry involving fake bank guarantees, leading to at least 10 million leva in advance payments to contractors.

The defense ministers of Germany and the Czech Republic are scheduled to meet to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and matters related to armaments.

The expansion of the European operation ASPIDES and broader European defense strategies are among the topics being discussed at an informal summit of defense ministers in Nicosia, Cyprus.

Lithuanian Minister of National Defense Robertas Kaunas is embarking on an official visit to Luxembourg today, where he is scheduled to meet with the country's Defense Minister, Yuriko Backes.

Türkiye's Disinformation Combat Center has denied reports alleging that Turkish fighter jets harassed an aircraft carrying Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias.

Turkish Interior Minister Mustafa Çitçi criticized comments made by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, reaffirming Türkiye's continued support for the Palestinian cause and the status of Jerusalem.